The Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens has announced that it has reached the halfway point, towards the completion of its exciting expansion and renovation project. That means that eight months remain until construction is wrapped up. The project, which is on schedule, and on budget, includes:
16,000 square feet of new construction, 14,000 square feet of renovated construction, and over 90,000 square feet of renovated and new outdoor gardens.
The Botanical Gardens and Wendel Companies, the lead architecture firm, have made it a priority to incorporate a plethora of environmental dynamics into the project, in an attempt to achieve LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Gold Certification.
“Our first priorities were to ensure that this expansion was environmentally progressive, and the new building did not compete with the historic conservatory. By renovating an existing building and adding a modern Welcome Center we have completed our connecting campus of buildings for an enhanced visitor experience overall,” said Erin Grajek, President and CEO of the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens. “The new building is spectacular in its own right; the exposed natural wood of the mass timber structure beautifully complements our core values of respecting our planet while celebrating our legacy. The views from our newly designed campus will give visitors new vantage points that truly connect us to nature and the beautiful surrounding South Park.”
“We congratulate the Botanical Gardens on surpassing the halfway point in its transformative project-a step that honors its 125-year legacy and ensures it remains a vibrant, sustainable cornerstone of Western New York for generations to come,” said Empire State Development President, CEO & Commissioner Hope Knight. “By integrating green technologies like solar power and advanced stormwater management, they are not only reducing their environmental footprint but also driving significant economic growth—creating new jobs, attracting regional tourism, and providing the modern facilities needed to expand the Botanical Garden’s educational and community programming.”
Focused on four key design principles, the project will achieve carbon neutrality through various efforts focused on efficiency of (1) energy, (2) water, (3) materials, and (4) equity…